Rise to the Occasion: Baking Sourdough Bread on a Budget with a $20 Bread Machine

Are you looking to elevate your baking game without breaking the bank? With just a $20 bread machine, you can rise to the occasion and bake delicious sourdough bread right in the comfort of your own kitchen. Let's dive into how you can achieve bakery-quality results on a budget.

Choosing the Right Bread Machine

When selecting a bread machine for sourdough baking, look for one that offers a dough setting. This setting allows you to mix and knead the dough, which is essential for developing the gluten in sourdough bread. You can find affordable options online or at your local thrift store. I got one for Christmas my Mom bought at Aldi. 

Ingredients for Success

Quality ingredients are key to creating flavorful sourdough bread. Invest in high-quality flour and consider creating your own sourdough starter to save even more money in the long run. All you need is flour, water, and a little patience to get your starter going. Your dough setting is best set at French  read setting.

Mastering the Art of Sourdough

While baking sourdough bread may seem daunting, it's all about practice and patience. With your bread machine, you can easily mix and knead the dough, taking the guesswork out of the process. Experiment with different hydration levels and fermentation times to find your perfect loaf. I use 2 cups AP flour, salt, sugar, veg oil and about 1 and 1/4 cups lick warm water. 

Tips for Budget-Friendly Baking

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your $20 bread machine:

• Buy flour in bulk to save money in the long run.
• Reuse and repurpose containers for storing your sourdough starter.
• Explore local farmer's markets for unique flour varieties at affordable prices.

Sharing the Joy of Sourdough

Once you've mastered the art of sourdough baking with your budget-friendly bread machine, consider sharing your loaves with friends and family. Homemade sourdough bread makes a thoughtful and delicious gift that everyone will appreciate.

Final Thoughts

Baking sourdough bread on a budget is not only achievable but also rewarding. With a $20 bread machine and a little creativity, you can enjoy the satisfaction of creating your own delicious loaves at a fraction of the cost of store-bought bread. So, roll up your sleeves, dust off your bread machine, and get ready to rise to the occasion!

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